Is it safe to delete Java versions installed by Coursier?
Java versions that Coursier downloaded and installed, for Scala and Java tools that use them.
Review first
It's your own data, or hard to recreate. Decide item by item.
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What it is
Coursier installs Java versions here when a tool asks for one, or when you set one up as your default Java: in the arc folder in current versions of Coursier, and in the jvm folder in older ones. Although these folders sit inside the Caches folder, they hold installed Java versions, and your shell or code editor may be set to use one of them. Coursier downloads a version again when it's needed.
If it's removed
Tools, shells and editors set to use one of these Java versions stop working until it's installed again.
What to do instead
Coursier manages these Java versions. Check which Java version your shell and code editor use before removing one.
The free analyzer finds it and explains it. The app never removes it.
Sources
Last checked on 26 Sep 2026. Every entry is written and checked by hand; the app and the command-line tool use the same words.